Understanding lung immunity to respiratory infections
BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
This study is looking at how our immune system fights off lung infections from certain bacteria, with the goal of finding ways to create better vaccines, especially for veterans.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Veterans Health Administration NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11061792 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on how the immune system specifically protects the lungs from infections caused by bacteria like Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Francisella tularensis. The project aims to discover T cell epitopes, which are pieces of proteins that help the immune system recognize and respond to these pathogens. By studying how immune cells, particularly CD8+ T cells, interact with these bacteria, the research seeks to develop effective vaccines that could improve health outcomes, especially for veterans. The approach involves large-scale discovery programs that analyze immune responses to these infections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults, particularly veterans, who are at risk for respiratory infections like tuberculosis.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of respiratory infections or are not at risk for tuberculosis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective vaccines against tuberculosis and other respiratory infections, significantly improving patient health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in developing vaccines targeting similar bacterial infections, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Veterans Health Administration — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Joyce, Sebastian — Veterans Health Administration
- Study coordinator: Joyce, Sebastian
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.